Bursting forth like a legion of young imps 

Arthur Rackham made this illustration, “Bursting forth like a legion of young imps,” using watercolor and ink. Rackham was a leading figure in the golden age of British book illustration, which flourished from the late 19th century into the early decades of the 20th. Rackham's style, characterized by delicate lines and whimsical figures, often drew upon folklore and fairy tales. Consider the social role of children’s literature during this time. The rise of public education and a growing middle class created a demand for imaginative works. Rackham’s illustrations provided a visual counterpart to these stories, shaping the moral and aesthetic sensibilities of young readers. We can examine periodicals, educational theories, and publishing records to understand how his art contributed to the cultural landscape of Edwardian England. The meaning of this image, like all works of art, is inseparable from its historical context.